For many of our neighbors in Circleville, Chillicothe, Ashville or Mt. Sterling, summer means more than sunshine and vacations. It also means working in the yard – often with tools that can be dangerous if not used properly.

Each year about 400,000 people are treated for injuries from lawn and garden tools, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Don’t let your landscaping efforts land you in the hospital! Follow these handy safety tips.

Tool safety tips from the U.S. CPSC

• Dress appropriately. To protect yourself from debris when using lawn tools, wear eye protection, long pants, long-sleeved shirts, close-fitting clothes and no jewelry. Sturdy shoes are recommended, and ear plugs may be appropriate depending on how loud the device is.
• Before starting, remove objects from your work area that could cause injury or damage, such as sticks, glass or stones.
• Keep children indoors and supervised at all times when any outdoor power equipment is being used. Never let a child ride or operate a garden tractor or riding mower, even if the child is supervised. And never assume children will remain where you last saw them.
• Use extreme caution when backing up or approaching corners, shrubs and trees.
• Teenagers using power equipment should always be supervised by an adult.
• Handle gasoline carefully. Never fill tanks while machinery is on or when equipment is still hot. Of course, you should never smoke or use any type of flame around gasoline or any gasoline-powered equipment.
• Do not work with electric power tools in wet or damp conditions. For protection against electrocution, use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).
  Be sure that extension cords are in good condition, are rated for outdoor use, and are the proper gauge for the electrical current capacity of the tool.

Lawn Chemical Safety Tips from Texas A&M University

• If you use chemicals to control weeds or pests in your lawn, read the product label carefully so you understand the potential effects on humans, animals and the environment. Follow all instructions.
• Keep children and animals away from the application area, and protect your skin, eyes and nose during and after application.
• Remember, use only the recommended amount. Using more of the chemical will not do a better job.
• Ask yourself if you truly need to use a general pesticide. Is there a product that will specifically treat only the problem you need to solve?

From all of us at Hummel and Plum Insurance Agency, here’s to keeping both you and your lawn healthy this summer!

If you have questions about insurance coverage or need help with a claim, we here at Hummel and Plum Insurance Agency are happy to help. Call us at 740-477-3311.

With summer in full swing, the weather is nice and the days are long — it’s the perfect time to hop on the bike and take off for a few days.

The perfect time to plan that road trip, though, is not the day before you leave. Preparation will reduce your stress level, increase safety and make the entire trip more enjoyable.

We know, it’s not as wild as just heading out with no plan whatsoever. But you’ll have plenty of fun by following these tips — and if you find yourself in a sticky situation, you’ll be ready.

Your itinerary

You don’t have to know exactly where you’re going, of course. Part of the fun of a road trip is the freedom to change it up. It’s best to come up with a general route, however, so you can do a little research on sights and attractions you may want to hit. Try motorcycleroads.us or Harley-Davidson’s ride planner.

And thanks to smartphones, you can book hotels as you go. Keep in mind that calling or booking online (even moments before you arrive) will often get you a better price than just walking in.

Your safety

As always, make sure your motorcycle is in good working condition before any trip. Regular T-CLOCS inspections will ensure that your journey doesn’t get stalled on the side of the road.

Check:

• Tires and wheels
• Controls
• Lights and electrical
• Oil and other fluids
• Chassis
• Stands

In addition to your regular gear, some essential safety items to pack include: A repair kit, your bike’s manual, maps or a GPS device, emergency flares, a first-aid kit and a list of emergency phone numbers (family members, insurance company, roadside assistance, etc.). Carry a spare key as well, or trade one with a traveling companion. You probably won’t need it, but if you do, you’ll really need it.

Your enjoyment

Road trips aren’t races — they’re meant to be relaxing and sometimes even meandering. So try not to overdo it. Have realistic expectations for the number of miles you can do each day, especially if you’re on back roads. Also be sure not to over pack; you can always do laundry on the road if needed.

Whether you’re headed around the state or across the country, here’s to a fun (and safe) journey!

If you have questions about your motorcycle insurance coverage or need help with a claim, we here at Hummel and Plum Insurance Agency are happy to help. Call us at 740-477-3311.

The Light Side of Home Security

Leaving your lights on — is it really a good way to keep burglars away from your Circleville, Chillicothe, Ashville or Mt. Sterling home, or can it actually attract them? Or, is it just a “good” way to increase your electricity bill?

As with so many questions in life, there isn’t one “right” answer. Using lights to enhance your home security can be effective, especially as part of a larger overall strategy. With that in mind, here are five things to consider:

1. Remember that variety is key. If your exterior lights are always on, even during the day, that can be a signal to burglars that nobody is home. Otherwise, you’d probably turn off the lights after sunrise, right? Don’t leave your lights on constantly while you’re on vacation or at work. Use timers or lights that can be turned on and off remotely to create different looks.

2. Try motion-detecting lights. These allow you to leave your lights off while you’re away or asleep, but, if someone is lurking around your house, the lights will come on. This will often scare off a burglar.

3. Consider your home’s surroundings. If you have overgrown bushes or trees on your property, burglars might be able to take cover even in the light. And, if you live in a rural area, with nobody around to notice uninvited guests on your property, lights may not do much to thwart them.

4. Connect with the neighbors. Even if you do have neighbors nearby, would they know when something – or someone – was out of place? Build a relationship with them, so they’ll know when you’re at work or on vacation, and so they can tell when something doesn’t look right.

5. Switch up your interior lights. A house that’s dark inside for a few days looks unoccupied, no matter how many outside lights are on. So, remember to set timers or turn lights on in different rooms of your house occasionally as well. This can help create the illusion that someone is home.

Of course, there’s no one perfect way to keep your Circleville, Chillicothe, Ashville or Mt. Sterling home safe. The best strategies oftentimes involve a number of different deterrents. So, mix it up, with your lights and other things, to keep burglars guessing whether or not anyone’s home.

If you have questions about your homeowners insurance coverage or need help with a claim, we here at Hummel and Plum Insurance Agency are happy to help. Call us at 740-477-3311.

Of course, because spring is a time for new beginnings, cleaning and organization around the house are very popular this time of year. If you’re ready to tackle that monumental chore, read on for some helpful information. (And if you’re so tidy and organized throughout the year that spring cleaning isn’t a big chore for you, well, keep that to yourself! Unless you want your friends and neighbors to be jealous, that is.)

Take it one room at a time. Deciding to clean or organize your entire home can quickly get overwhelming. If you focus on just one area or room, then move to another only when you’re finished, you’ll likely work more efficiently.

Follow the six-month rule. Generally, if you haven’t used something in six months (with the exception of seasonal items), it’s a good idea to consider throwing it away or donating it.

Don’t forget the kitchen. Just like other rooms, your kitchen likely has things that haven’t been used in some time — and this includes food in the refrigerator or freezer. Give those appliances a thorough cleaning and get rid of anything you won’t be eating.

Set yourself up for success. Paper clutter is something we all could probably cut back on pretty easily. Setting up a few recycling bins throughout the house gives you a convenient alternative to just setting that old magazine or paperwork down somewhere and watching the pile grow.

Make some money! Of course, the spring cleaning garage sale is a tradition for many homeowners, and can be a great way to bring in some extra income. Talk about a win-win situation — you get rid of stuff you don’t need, and someone pays you for it!

Stay safe. When you’re cleaning or maintaining your home, be mindful of the physical risks involved. Lift with your leg muscles, not your back. Avoid prolonged repetitive motions. Use ladders, lawnmowers and other dangerous tools with caution.

Contact Us!

If you have questions about your homeowners insurance coverage or need help with a claim, we here at Hummel and Plum Insurance Agency are happy to help. Call us at 740-477-3311.

Imagine how devastating it would be to lose your home in a fire. Now imagine not being able to rebuild it completely because you didn’t have the correct amount of insurance.

Selecting the proper amount of coverage is the single most important decision you can make with your Homeowners policy. Without it, you may not have enough coverage to rebuild after a total loss. This is called “insurance to value.” Below are some explanations and tips to help you make the right choices for your needs — and remember, if you need help, we’re just a phone call away!

What is insurance to value?

Insurance to value is the relationship between the amount of coverage selected (typically listed as “Coverage A” or “Dwelling Coverage” on your policy declarations page) and the amount required to rebuild your home. Insuring your home for anything less than 100% insurance to value could mean you wouldn’t have enough coverage to replace your home in the event of a total loss

Why is the cost to rebuild different from the market value?

A home’s market value reflects current economic conditions, taxes, school districts, the value of the land and location, and other factors unrelated to construction cost. The cost to rebuild your home is based only on the cost of materials and labor in your area. It is important that you insure your home based on its reconstruction cost, NOT its current market value

Why is reconstruction more expensive than new construction?

New-home builders typically build many homes at once, and solicit bids from various sub-contractors to receive the best pricing. Their business model is based on economies of scale. For example, they may purchase 20 bathtubs at once, securing a lower unit cost. These economies of scale don’t exist when building a single home.

How can I make sure I have the correct amount of insurance?

Work with your agent to provide detailed information at time of purchase to be sure that you receive a thorough and accurate quote.

Ask us about additional coverage options that may be available.

Review your insurance to value calculation on a regular basis with your agent.

Tell your agent about any changes or improvements that you make to your home.

If you have questions about your homeowners insurance coverage or need help with a claim, we here at Hummel and Plum Insurance Agency are happy to help. Call us at 740-477-3311.

There’s a ticking time bomb in your Circleville, Chillicothe, Ashville or Mt. Sterling house right now, waiting to strike when you least expect it. In fact, there might even be more than one. And each can cause thousands and thousands of dollars in damage.

We here at Hummel and Plum Insurance Agency are talking about faulty appliance hoses, of course.

Consider your humble washing machine: According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), washing-machine failures cost an average of more than $5,000, and faulty hoses are responsible for more than half of those failures.

You can take steps to defuse these ticking time bombs — or at least make them less likely to go off. Here are the common hoses and tubes you should be checking:

Washing Machine
Most washing machines come with rubber hoses that connect to your water supply — hoses that can wear out and eventually burst. The IBHS says to check frequently for blisters, worn tubing, stress cracks and loose connections. Even if there is no obvious wear, replace hoses every five years. Use a reinforced steel-braided hose, as they are less likely to fail.

Dryer
Although you should clean the lint trap in your dryer with every load, danger lurks behind the dryer as well. Flexible plastic or foil ducting can easily trap lint and increase the risk of fire, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The agency recommends the use of a rigid or semi-rigid metal duct instead. Whichever you use, be sure to disconnect and clean the ducting annually.

Refrigerator
If your refrigerator has an icemaker or water dispenser, it also has a hose connecting it to the water supply. Replace the standard hose with a steel-braided line for added security.

Dishwasher
Dishwasher leaks can easily go undetected, so it’s important to check these connections regularly as well. Make sure that hoses and lines have no kinks, and periodically remove and clean the filter in the dishwasher, which is designed to stop food pieces from making it into the drain hose.

Gas Grills
At least once a year (typically when you fire up the grill for the first time after winter), check the hose connecting the fuel source to the burners. Simply brush it with some soapy water, turn the gas on (do not light the grill) and check the hose for air bubbles. If you see any, replace the hose and fitting.

In addition to checking your hoses regularly and replacing them when needed, there are monitoring systems available now that can automatically shut off your water supply in the event of a failure. Some detect leaks with moisture indicators, while at least one new system actually checks your water meter for unusual activity.

To further protect you, your homeowners insurance may cover certain damage that results from appliance hose failures. But, it all depends on the circumstances of your situation and on your specific policy. You may find that an appliance hose failure is not covered by your insurance, so it’s best to maintain your appliances to avoid damage in the first place.

If you have questions about your homeowners insurance coverage or need help with a claim, we here at Hummel and Plum Insurance Agency are happy to help. Call us at 740-477-3311.

Winter Storms Ahead:
Are You Ready?

We admit it: As insurance pros, our picture of winter isn’t exactly cozy. Winter storms mean traffic snarls, hillsides turning to sheets of ice, and cars sliding around like hockey pucks. Cold temperatures can cause pipes to burst, frost swells and other damage. Heating your home with fireplaces and holiday lighting can increase the risk of fire.

A picture-perfect winter requires a few precautions

Here are a few of our top tips to help reduce weather-related hassles this winter.

Winter-proof your car with good snow tires or chains, new wiper blades, antifreeze, and emergency road supplies.

Keep your attic cool to help prevent ice dams. Insulate the attic floor and make sure it is well-ventilated.

Do not overload circuits with holiday decorations.

When winter storms hit, be smart

If you do not have to drive, stay put. If you must drive, make sure you’ve winterized your car and have a full tank of gas.

When the air is cold, keep bath and kitchen cabinet doors open so warm air can circulate around pipes. If pipes do freeze, let them thaw normally—they’ll be less likely to burst.

And if the power is out, make sure you avoid leaving candles or fires burning unattended. If you use a portable generator, follow the instructions and do not use it indoors.

Know what your insurance covers

We want to help you rest easy. You will be more relaxed when you know you have prepared your property to lessen the chance of winter storm damage. Your insurance policy covers repair or rebuilding costs. However, your deductible does apply. Check your policy to see what is covered and to confirm the deductible you have chosen.

If you have any questions at all about your coverage, call Hummel and Plum Insurance Agency at 740-477-3311 and we will help you review your options.

Having the right life insurance is pivotal in planning for the future of you and your loved ones. Life insurance can help you fulfill promises you’ve made your family when you are gone.

Don’t leave the future of you and your loved ones to chance. The Hummel & Plum Insurance Agency can help you find the right life insurance coverage for you, and help ensure that your policy continually meets your needs.

Life changes – so should your policy

For each of our neighbors in Ohio, the right life insurance will be unique for you and dependent on your personal and financial needs. As your life changes, your life insurance coverage may need to change in order to adapt to your current needs. Some life transformations that may require a policy “tune-up” and our help at Hummel & Plum Insurance Agency include:

• You recently married or divorced
• You have a new child or grandchild
• You have opened or expanded a business
• Your health or your spouse’s health has deteriorated
• You are providing care or financial assistance to a parent
• Your child or grandchild requires assistance or long-term care
• You recently purchased a new home
• You are planning for a child or grandchild’s education
• You are concerned about retirement income
• You have refinanced your home mortgage in the past six months
• You or your spouse recently received an inheritance
• You have a sizable estate

Ohio – What you need to know about life insurance

Hummel & Plum Insurance Agency can help you select the best life insurance coverage for your needs. There are several different types of life insurance products available – the most common include:

Term Life Insurance

Term life insurance provides protection for a specified period of time. If you do not currently have life insurance, term can be a good place to start. It’s generally less expensive than permanent (whole) life insurance, and is available in varying time periods with fixed premiums from a one year (annual renewable term) to 20-year (level term) period. Furthermore, term life insurance is sometimes convertible to permanent coverage, providing you with flexibility as your needs change.

Whole Life Insurance

Whole life insurance is a form of permanent life insurance that remains in force for your entire lifetime, provided premiums are paid as specified in the policy. Whole life insurance can be an investment opportunity, as many whole life insurance policies also build cash value over time.

Universal Life Insurance

Universal life is a form of permanent life insurance characterized by its flexible premiums, face amounts and unbundled pricing structure. Universal life can build cash value, which earns an interest rate that may adjust periodically, but is usually guaranteed not to fall below a certain percentage.

So what type of life insurance is best for you? Talk with the team at Hummel & Plum Insurance Agency today at: 740-477-3311, and we can assist in identifying the best protection for you.

What are the advantages of life insurance?

Having the right life insurance is essential to planning for your present, and your future. Not only can life insurance provide assurance for your family after you are gone, many life insurance options offer other benefits and investment opportunities you can take advantage of while you are living.

Advantages of the life insurance death benefit: When you pass away, your life insurance provides income tax-free money to your named beneficiary or beneficiaries that can be used to pay funeral expenses, debt, tuition, estate taxes or virtually any financial need. Your policy can help provide security for your business security as well, by enabling partners to buy out the interests of a deceased partner and prevent a forced liquidation.

Advantages of Living Benefits: The cash value growth of a permanent (whole) life insurance policy is tax-deferred, meaning you do not pay taxes on the growth of cash value, unless money is withdrawn. Loans or withdrawals can be taken against the cash value of a permanent life insurance policy to help with expenses, such as college tuition or the down payment on a home.

The right life insurance coverage for each and every one of our neighbors in Ohio is unique – talk with the Hummel & Plum Insurance Agency team today to find out how to protect your family and your future with the right life insurance. Contact Us Today

Helpful Links

Insurance Information Institute

A non-profit group sponsored by the insurance industry to provide general information about insurance. This is an excellent resource for unbiased information. Order publications on the Insurance Information Institute website.

Highway Loss Data Institute

Information on car theft, collision and injury listed by car make, model and year. Also contains extensive highway safety tips and information.

Insurance Institute for Highway Safety

Excellent information and sobering statistics on automobile safety from an independent, non-profit organization.

National Flood Insurance Program Information

Includes a wealth of information on how to insure homes against flooding. This site is the official web page for the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

The Life and Health Insurance Foundation for Education

The Life and Health Insurance Foundation for Education (LIFE) is a non-profit organization designed to address the public’s growing need for information and education on life, health, and disability insurance. LIFE also seeks to remind people of the important role agents perform in helping families, businesses, and individuals find the insurance products that best fit their needs.

The Institute for Business and Home Safety’s DisasterSafety.org
http://www.disastersafety.org
Logo: http://www.disastersafety.org/resource/resmgr/logos/new-ibhs-logo.jpg

The Institute for Business and Home Safety provides DisasterSafety.org for homeowners and small business owners as part of its overall mission of reducing property losses.

National Insurance Crime Bureau
https://www.nicb.org
Logo: https://www.nicb.org/images/logo.jpg

A not-for-profit organization that partners with insurers and law enforcement agencies to facilitate the identification, detection and prosecution of insurance criminals. Site offers VINCheck™, which lets people use a vehicle VIN number to determine whether the vehicle is an unrecovered stolen or salvage vehicle.

Occupational Safety & Health Administration
http://www.osha.gov/
Logo: http://www.osha.gov/images/osha-banner.png

Congress created the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to ensure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and women by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education and assistance.

Federal Trade Commission Identity Theft site
http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/
Logo: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/idtheft/images/avoid.gif

This website is a one-stop national resource to learn about the crime of identity theft. It provides detailed information to help you deter, detect, and defend against identity theft.